Looking for a beginner rig

[MikeOxbig 0]

Alright, I'm in the middle of my AFF course and am looking for a beginner rig. I realize that it is not recommended to start buying gear this soon but I'd rather put my money towards a new rig instead of constantly renting after getting my license, even if I am too inexperienced to know exactly what my preferences are.

If you HAD to set up a generic newbie rig out of the below combination, what would you recommend?

http://www.dropzonesolutions.com/parachute-systems-summer-skydiving-package-special/

Obviously it's a generic question without a one size fits all answer, but I'm simply trying to get pointed in the right direction and fully anticipate upgrading within the near future.

[IJskonijn 45]

MikeOxbig

...I'd rather put my money towards a new rig instead of constantly renting after getting my license, even if I am too inexperienced to know exactly what my preferences are.

Renting for now while building experience, talking with people on your DZ about gear and testing different parachute types, and only then buying your own stuff, will be a much more efficient use of your money. And that's not even touching the issue of buying new vs buying second-hand.

MikeOxbig

If you HAD to set up a generic newbie rig out of the below combination, what would you recommend?

Nothing. None of those main canopies are canopies I would in general recommend to a generic student just fresh off AFF. In general I would recommend to such a student canopies the like of a Navigator or Solo, in a size suitable for their weight. In particular, I would recommend such a student to talk with their AFF instructor, and with their coaches. They know you and can tailor their advise to your level.

[shorehambeach 9]

MikeOxbig

Alright, I'm in the middle of my AFF course and am looking for a beginner rig. I realize that it is not recommended to start buying gear this soon but I'd rather put my money towards a new rig instead of constantly renting after getting my license, even if I am too inexperienced to know exactly what my preferences are.

If you HAD to set up a generic newbie rig out of the below combination, what would you recommend?

http://www.dropzonesolutions.com/parachute-systems-summer-skydiving-package-special/

Obviously it's a generic question without a one size fits all answer, but I'm simply trying to get pointed in the right direction and fully anticipate upgrading within the near future.

You wrote the answer.

When you have more time in this sport you'll understand why.

Welcome to the sky

[wmw999 2,452]

If you're physically large, and the gear doesn't fit, there might be some justification for getting at least a container and reserve, and putting a series of mains into it as you progress. I'd suggest looking in the ads for the keywords "big boy." Don't look for "beginner," because that's usually used to describe something thoroughly ragged out.

In your first 50 jumps off student status you'll likely go through two or three sizes of main; buying them is prohibitive. And if you DO buy, remember that the last thing you want is the smallest reserve you can get away with.

With that, now are you beginning to understand why a conversation with an actual person at your DZ would be better? Each statement needs explanation or clarification; that's a lot of effort on forums, and no trouble at all when talking.

Wendy P.

There is nothing more dangerous than breaking a basic safety rule and getting away with it. It removes fear of the consequences and builds false confidence. (tbrown)